I got Trainz 2006 on about June 14. It's been three weeks, and FINALLY I know what I'm doing. Sheesh! What a long learning curve!
I now know how to make HTML assets for the game (info panels). I also know how to set and use objectives. I've made my own sound (a trainwreck -- gotta have this!), and have made some textures too. I know how to use the Multi-Industry New, and can get custom goods loaded (and this little UNDOCUMENTED asset is the only way you can get a load into a boxcar, fer Pete's sake). I know how to use triggers. I know how to use trackmarks. I'm finally on my way!
I thought I'd never complain about having too many resources for a game, but here goes -- this game has too many resources! There are so freaking many, it takes forever to find the one that you want. But, on the other hand, there's just tons of stuff -- buildings from the Wild West, Victorian homes and stores, buildings from the early 20th century, and then there's modern and post modern stuff. When it comes to textures, there's just a zillion of them. I hadda make my own to easily find some that go together! But, I'm learning what works and what doesn't, and I'm happy for the wealth of goodies. Still.... I gotta complain! Picking through them all slows you down!
Of the built in routes and sessions, one maker has their stuff together. That is the narrow gauge stuff. They have EXCELLENT industries whose animations just smoke! They know how to texture their routes, and these look great! And they know how to make a session that is playable. I've found that you shouldn't make your route too big, and you need to have a way to let your end-user know what to do over the course of a couple hours. If you wanna learn, study their routes and sessions. I can't remember what it's called, but it's Bay something or 'something Bay'. Checki it out if you haven't already.
So, now I have one small route that consists of only two boards, but it has all the session goodies on it. It plays well, and it's fun. After I complete the mission, I just keep going and do other stuff with it.
Up next, I'm gonna build a 3x4 panel route. This is plenty big! This should keep me busy for at least a month! And when it's done, I'll start another. I don't think I'm gonna be uploading anything. I won't be downloading anything either. I got plenty as it is! I'll show ya some screen shots, or maybe make a movie. UTube has lots of Trainz moviez, and some are pretty good.
I'm ready for my close-up, Mr. Deville!
But I tell ya, it's been a lotta work to get this far. The documentation just plain sucks! Poor health hasn't helped much either.
And you? Where are you with Trainz? Still frustrated? Or are ya getting close to figgering it out?
It's a hobby not a game!
Oh, and uh... it's much cheaper than HO!
p.s. In my 'down time', I've watched numerous movies lately. Four out of five have a train in them somewhere. I even saw one in a CSI episode, and then on PBS' Globe Trekker. Trainz are everywherz!!
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